The Major League Baseball Players Association and Major League Baseball today announced they are joining together to contribute $250,000 to assist victims of the devastating floods that have affected parts of Louisiana.

The Major League Baseball Players Association and its licensee, 108 Stitches, today announced that they will be making MLBPA commemorative 50th anniversary T-shirts -- created exclusively for the Players -- available to the public for a limited time of only 50 days, beginning on the 50th day of the Major League season, Sunday, May 22, 2016.

The Major League Baseball Players Association and STACK, the nation's leading multi-platform sports performance content and media company for student athletes, announced the launch of the Players Choice Student Athlete Digital Network.

Major League Baseball (MLB) and the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) jointly announced today that the two-game series in San Juan, Puerto Rico between the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Miami Marlins, which had been slated for May 30-31 at Hiram Bithorn Stadium, has been relocated to Miami's Marlins Park.

The Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) and Fresh Brewed Tees today formally announced the launch of the 2016 Player Election Campaign T-shirt sales program, inspired by this year's intense and polarizing American presidential election and the reenergized excitement for America's greatest pastime.

The Tampa Bay Rays will play the Cuban National Team in an exhibition game on Tuesday, March 22 at Estadio Latinoamericano in Havana during an historic trip to the island nation, Major League Baseball (MLB) and the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) officially announced Tuesday.

A rule governing slides on possible double plays and two additions to the pace of game program have been approved for the 2016 regular season, Major League Baseball (MLB) and the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) jointly announced today.

The Major League Baseball Players Association today announced plans to commemorate its golden anniversary as a union representing Major League Baseball Players, and it also unveiled a series of logos designed to honor its rich 50-year history as one of the world's premier labor organizations.

MP & Silva, a leading international media rights agency, has been granted the global media distribution rights for all games of the 2017 World Baseball Classic and Qualifiers, the premier international baseball tournament featuring many of the world's greatest players.

The Major League Baseball Players Trust today announced the five recipients of a 2016 Michael Weiner Scholarship for Labor Studies, established by Major Leaguers to honor the life and work of the Major League Baseball Players Association's late executive director.

The San Diego Padres and the Houston Astros will play a pair of Spring Training games at Fray Nano in Mexico City, March 26-27, Major League Baseball (MLB), the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) and the Mayor of Mexico City, Dr. Miguel Mancera, announced today.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association jointly announced that they will provide a $200,000 grant to Caritas Cubana, the U.S.-based, non-governmental provider of humanitarian, social and emergency services to Cuba.

The Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) today announced the launch of Infield Chatter, a first-of-its-kind, online social community, to connect Major League Baseball players and fans in a unique and fun environment.

The Texas Rangers and the Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation, Major League Baseball, the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) and Dallas-based Mercy Street today jointly announced plans to build the Texas Rangers MLB Urban Youth Academy in West Dallas.

Major Leaguers and Las Vegas natives Kris Bryant of the Chicago Cubs and Bryce Harper of the Washington Nationals will serve as co-hosts of the 12th annual Players Trust fundraising golf tournament at prestigious Cascata on Thursday, Jan. 14, 2016.

The Major League Baseball Players Association and Major League Baseball today announced that they are jointly contributing $250,000 to assist victims of the devastating floods that have ravaged parts of South Carolina.

Since 1992, Major League Baseball players have presented their Players Choice Awards to recognize the on-field and off-field accomplishments of their peers, and this year Majestic is joining this annual celebration that honors the season's best of the best by presenting its inaugural "Always Game" award.

The Kansas City MLB Urban Youth Academy, an indoor training facility and four new state-of-the-art diamonds to enhance the 18th and Vine District, is planned for Parade Park at Truman Road and The Paseo, it was announced today at a press conference at the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.

Thousands of baseball fans participated in an internet poll on MLBPLAYERS.com between Sept. 10-13 to determine which players inspire others to higher levels of achievement by their on-field performances and contributions to their communities.

Online balloting at www.MLBPLAYERS.com opened today so fans can select the six finalists for the 2015 Marvin Miller Man of the Year award, which goes to the player whose on-field performance and contributions to his community most inspire others to higher levels of achievement.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association today announced that they have reached agreement on a Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy to cover Major League Players.

Still riding high after one of the greatest World Series pitching performances of all time, San Francisco Giants ace and Series MVP Madison Bumgarner's jersey is the most popular for fans around the globe.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association jointly announced today that the New York Yankees and Alex Rodriguez have amicably resolved their potential dispute regarding Rodriguez's entitlement to bonus monies under the provision of his player contract covering historical statistical accomplishments.

Cincinnati Reds outfielder Jay Bruce and former Reds All-Star Eric Davis are teaming up to co-host the third annual Players Trust All Star Golf Tournament at Coldstream Country Club in Cincinnati on Wednesday, July 15 -- the day after the Queen City hosts the 86th MLB All-Star Game.

The Major League Baseball Players Association will lead a group of active and former Major Leaguers to West Baltimore on Saturday to celebrate a predominantly African-American youth baseball league that has served the troubled neighborhood for more than 50 years.

Cincinnati Reds outfielder Jay Bruce and former Reds All-Star Eric Davis are teaming up to co-host the third annual Players Trust All Star Golf Tournament at Coldstream Country Club in Cincinnati on Wednesday, July 15.

Major League Baseball players will award $2,000 college scholarships to 20 outstanding high school students in recognition of their dedication to community service and tireless efforts to encourage others to get involved with causes they believe in.

The Major League Baseball Players Trust has signed up to help further the movement to end extreme poverty this spring when it participates in the 4th annual Live Below the Line campaign, a fundraising initiative by The Global Poverty Project that challenges participants to live on $1.50/day for food and drink for 1-5 days during the week of April 27-May 1, 2015.

Baseball Commissioner Robert D. Manfred, Jr., Major League Baseball Players Association Executive Director Tony Clark and Atlanta Braves President John Schuerholz, the Chairman of Major League Baseball's Pace of Game and Instant Replay Committees, today jointly announced additions to the sport's pace of game program, which will be effective in Spring Training, the regular season and the Postseason, and a series of modifications to the instant replay system.

The Major League Baseball Players Trust today announced its first recipients of the Michael Weiner Scholarship for Labor Studies, established by Major Leaguers to honor the life and work of the Major League Baseball Players Association's late executive director.

The Office of the Commissioner of Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association jointly announced today a partnership with the United States government through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to focus on education in the Dominican Republic.

The Major League Baseball Players Association and Major League Baseball today released the annual public report from the Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program's Independent Program Administrator.

Japan Society today announced it will host a press event in Tokyo to highlight the Major League Baseball Players Trust's contribution to the Society's Japan Earthquake Relief Fund (JERF), and ongoing recovery work the fund supports.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association today announced the full squad of players who have been named to the MLB All-Star Team to be led by Boston Red Sox manager John Farrell during the upcoming Japan All-Star Series 2014.

Clayton Kershaw on Monday became the first player to ever win three Players Choice Awards in a single year, as he was recognized by his fellow players as the National League's Outstanding Pitcher, the overall Player of the Year and the Marvin Miller Man of the Year.

American League batting champion Jose Altuve of the Houston Astros, National League batting champion Justin Morneau of the Colorado Rockies and Bryce Harper of the Washington Nationals have been named to the MLB All-Stars team led by Boston Red Sox manager John Farrell for the Japan All-Star Series 2014.

As New York Yankees captain Derek Jeter approaches retirement, his jersey is as popular as ever. Jeter once again stands atop the list of most popular MLB player jerseys, and as the Postseason approaches, the next crop of young stars chasing a World Series title fills out the majority of the list.

Thousands of baseball fans participated in an internet poll on MLBPLAYERS.com between Sept. 6-12 to determine which six players, one from each division, inspire others to higher levels of achievement by their on-field performances and contributions to their communities.

Beginning today, fans voting online will help select the Major League baseball player whose on-field performance and contributions to his community inspire others to higher levels of achievement. Fan voting for the Marvin Miller Man of the Year award will be conducted on MLBPLAYERS.com, the official website of Major League baseball players, through midnight Friday, Sept. 12.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association jointly announced today that MLB All-Stars Robinson Cano of the Seattle Mariners, Adam Jones of the Baltimore Orioles, Yasiel Puig of the Los Angeles Dodgers and Albert Pujols of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim will be among the group of accomplished Major Leaguers who will travel to Japan this November to play a five-game series against "Samurai Japan" (Japan's National Team) in "All-Star Series 2014."

Major League Baseball players will stand together as one and do their collective best to "strike out cancer" on Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2014, when they host a player-led initiative to raise awareness and funds for cancer-related charities across the United States.

The Major League Baseball Players Trust today announced that Starkey Hearing Technologies has been named presenting sponsor of the Trust's second annual All Star Golf Tournament, co-hosted by Minnesota's own Joe Mauer and Dave Winfield. The tournament will take place at Windsong Farm Golf Club in Independence, Minn., on Wednesday, July 16, the day after the 85th MLB All-Star Game.

Major League baseball player LaTroy Hawkins of the Colorado Rockies presented $150,000 in grants from the Major League Baseball Players Trust to seven Volunteers of America programs that further the organization's mission to strengthen communities and build better lives for those in need. Additionally, the players contributed $15,250 to two local affiliates in recognition of their efforts to help grow and improve the Action Team national youth volunteer program.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association jointly announced today that All-Stars and other accomplished Major Leaguers will travel to Japan this November to play a five-game series against "Samurai Japan" (Japan's National Team) in "All-Star Series 2014."

Six-time All-Star Joe Mauer and Hall of Famer Dave Winfield, both Minnesota natives, are joining forces with the Major League Baseball Players Trust to raise funds for area children's charities when they co-host the second annual Players Trust All Star Golf Tournament at Windsong Farm Golf Club in Independence, Minn., on Wednesday, July 16.

Major League Baseball players will award $2,000 college scholarships to 18 outstanding high school students in recognition of their dedication to community service and tireless efforts to encourage others to get involved with causes they believe in, it was announced today by the Major League Baseball Players Trust.

World Series MVP David Ortiz tops the current list of most popular MLB player jerseys, which features many of the top performers during the 2013 postseason, offseason newsmakers and some of the brightest young stars in the game.

The Seattle Mariners, Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association are donating $225,000 to assist with the recovery from the massive mudslide in Snohomish County on March 22, 2014, that has claimed the lives of more than two dozen people with many others still missing.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association jointly announced today significant improvements to virtually every component of their Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program. In making the most extensive modifications to the program since 2006, MLB and the MLBPA continue to take steps to ensure that baseball has the most comprehensive drug program of any professional sports organization in the world.

The Major League Baseball Players Association today announced that its general membership -- through a secret ballot distributed during Spring Training and through online voting -- has overwhelmingly confirmed the Dec. 3, 2013, decision of the executive board to name Tony Clark as its executive director.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association jointly announced today that MLB Network has been selected as the national telecast partner in the United States for the MLB Opening Series Sydney between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Los Angeles Dodgers.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association have officially negotiated the addition of Rule 7.13, covering collisions at home plate, on an experimental basis for the 2014 season.

A two-game series between the New York Yankees and Miami Marlins will mark the return of Major League Baseball to Panama for the first time since 1947, Major League Baseball (MLB) and the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) announced today. The "Legend Series" will be played March 15-16 at Panama City's Rod Carew Stadium and will honor the legacy of newly retired Yankees great Mariano Rivera, the game's all-time saves leader.

Major League Baseball Players Association executive director Tony Clark announced today that former Major League outfielder Jeffrey Hammonds has joined the MLBPA in the newly created position of special assistant, player program development.

Major League Baseball Players Association executive director Tony Clark announced today that former Major League pitcher Bob Tewksbury has joined the MLBPA as director of player development, a newly created position.

More than 30 Major League Baseball players will gather in the San Diego area this week to mix a little business with pleasure when the Major League Baseball Players Trust holds its annual board meeting and fundraising events Wednesday-Friday, Jan. 8-10, 2014, at The Lodge at Torrey Pines and Del Mar Country Club.

The following statement was issued today by former Major League Baseball Players Association executive director Donald Fehr regarding the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum's Expansion Era Committee election results.

The following statement was issued today by Major League Baseball Players Association executive director Tony Clark regarding the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum's Expansion Era Committee election results.

The executive board of the Major League Baseball Players Association voted unanimously to appoint Tony Clark as the union's next executive director, pending a vote by the general membership, it was announced today during the MLBPA's annual executive board meeting.

The Major League Baseball Players Association is sad to announce that its executive director, Michael Weiner, today lost his heroic, 15-month battle with brain cancer. He passed away quietly at home in New Jersey surrounded by his loving wife, Diane, and three daughters.

Major League Baseball players today announced that they have designated $250,000 in grants to help fund the efforts of non-profits working to help the Philippines recover and rebuild from the devastating effects of Typhoon Haiyan.

Major League Baseball players this evening announced the winners of their highest honors -- the Players Choice Awards -- in which the players themselves recognize their peers' most outstanding and inspiring performances.

The Major League Baseball Players Association today announced the release of three new "Livin' the Dream" videos, out of a series of five, that feature an inside look into the lives of the Major Leaguers in hot pursuit of a World Series championship.

Beginning today, fans voting online will help select the Major League Baseball player whose on-field performance and contributions to his community inspire others to higher levels of achievement. Fan voting for the Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award will be conducted through 11:59 p.m. ET on Sunday, Sept. 15

Prior to this evening's game at Coors Field, Michael Cuddyer and teammates will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 children from St. Elizabeth's School, as the Major League Baseball Players Trust's "Buses for Baseball" program motors into Denver.

This fall, the Major League Baseball Players Trust will receive the 2013 Charles E. Horton Humanitarian Award for Global Health at the Physicians for Peace Gala on Nov. 2. The annual award, Physicians for Peace's highest honor, recognizes an individual or organization that has improved the health care of the world's most vunerable populations.

Major League Baseball Players Association executive director Michael Weiner today announced that director of player services, Tony Clark, has been appointed to the newly created position of deputy executive director.

If you share skills with Eric Dittelman, then you won't have to read any further, because you would already know that the mind reader will display his mind-blowing talent for guests and golfers attending the Players Trust's Superstorm Sandy benefit golf tournament on Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, Long Island, on Wednesday, July 17.

New York Mets first baseman Ike Davis and New York Yankees relief pitcher David Robertson are representing their peers and going to bat for Superstorm Sandy victims when they co-host a Players Trust all-star golf tournament on Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, Long Island, on Wednesday, July 17.

Major League Baseball players presented $150,000 in grants from the Major League Baseball Players Trust to five Volunteers of America programs that further the organization's mission to strengthen communities and build better lives for those in need. More than $1.3 million has been provided by the Players Trust to 70 Volunteers of America programs since the first grants were presented by Major Leaguers in 2003.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association jointly announced today that the 2014 championship season will begin in Sydney, Australia, on March 22-23, 2014, when the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Los Angeles Dodgers will play MLB's Opening Series at the historic Sydney Cricket Ground.

Prior to this evening's game at Busch Stadium, Jon Jay, David Freese and teammates will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 children from Mission: St. Louis, as the Major League Baseball Players Trust's "Buses for Baseball" program motors into St. Louis.

The Major League Baseball Players Association today announced that its discussions with the Commissioner's Office over the creation of an international amateur draft have ended without reaching an agreement.

New York Mets first baseman Ike Davis and New York Yankees relief pitcher David Robertson are representing their peers and going to bat for Superstorm Sandy victims when they host a Players Trust all-star golf tournament on Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, Long Island, N.Y., on Wednesday, July 17.

Major League Baseball players and Volunteers of America have teamed up to inspire the next generation of volunteers by launching a new radio and TV public service announcement campaign titled "Teammates." The PSA campaign was created to encourage students, teachers and administrators to volunteer through the high school-based Action Team national youth program, administered by the Major League Baseball Players Trust and Volunteers of America.

At the Harlem RBI baseball field in New York City, New York Mets players Scott Atchison, John Buck and LaTroy Hawkins were joined by Pittsburgh Pirates players Russell Martin and Mark Melancon when they launched the 2013 City Clinics program by visiting the New York Center for Autism Charter Schools annual baseball extravaganza. Former Mets and Pirates player and current MLBPA special assistant Bobby Bonilla also joined the fun.

The Baseball Tomorrow Fund (BTF) and the New York Mets Foundation will donate up to $1 million through a relief grant program for youth baseball and softball organizations that were directly affected by Superstorm Sandy. The grant program, which will be administered by the Baseball Tomorrow Fund, is intended to provide support to organizations to maintain or re-establish youth baseball and softball programs and/or facilities affected by the storm.

Colorado Rockies players, including co-hosts Dexter Fowler and Eric Young Jr., will trade in their cleats for bowling shoes when the Major League Baseball Players Trust hosts a fundraising All-Star Bowling Bash at Denver's Punch Bowl Social on Thursday, June 13, from 6-9 p.m. local time.

Major League Baseball players will award $2,000 college scholarships to 20 outstanding high school students in recognition of their dedication to community service and tireless efforts to encourage others to get involved with causes they believe in, it was announced today by the Major League Baseball Players Trust. Each scholarship recipient is a member of the Action Team® national youth volunteer program created and administered by the Major League Baseball Players Trust and Volunteers of America.

Major League Baseball, the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) and the Boston Red Sox have announced a combined $600,000 donation to assist the victims and families affected by the bombing at this year's Boston Marathon. Major League Baseball and the MLBPA will donate a combined $500,000, and the Boston Red Sox will contribute $100,000 to One Fund Boston, established by Massachusetts governor Deval Patrick and Boston mayor Tom Menino.

In a pregame ceremony prior to Wednesday's game in Detroit, Tigers infielder Miguel Cabrera will receive two prestigious Players Choice Awards as the 2012 Player of the Year and AL Outstanding Player. Teammate and 2011 Player of the Year Justin Verlander will present Cabrera with his awards.

Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Craig Breslow, a member of the Major League Baseball Players Association's executive board and an active participant in the operational procedures of the union's own 501 c 3 foundation, the Major League Baseball Players Trust, recently defended foundations created by professional athletes in a letter to the editor of The Boston Globe.

The 2013 World Baseball Classic set records in attendance, licensing, viewership and sponsorship sales and social-media activity as the tournament continued its mission of growing the sport of baseball around the world.

The World Baseball Classic has recorded its largest attendance in its history through the completion of the first round. The competition has registered nearly one half million fans (463,017) for games completed prior to the second round.

Todd Frazier of the Cincinnati Reds and a native of Point Pleasant, N.J., has designated the Baseball United Foundation's "Grand Slam for Sandy" fundraising effort as the recipient of a $10,000 grant from the Major League Baseball Players Trust.

Major League Baseball Players Association director of player services Tony Clark today announced that former Major Leaguer Jose Cruz, Jr. has joined the player services department as special assistant.

MetLife has signed on to be a global sponsor and the official insurance company of the 2013 World Baseball Classic. MetLife, and its brand ambassador Snoopy, will be incorporated into multiple aspects of the event including in-stadium exposure and on worldwide media platforms.

Last evening at NYU's Tishman Auditorium in New York City, nearly 450 people, including close to 100 current and former Major Leaguers, joined the Major League Baseball Players Association in honoring the life and achievements of MLBPA founding executive director Marvin Miller. Miller passed away in November 2012 at the age of 95.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association announced that they have modified their Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program to provide for unannounced, random blood testing for the detection of human growth hormone (HGH) during the regular season, beginning in 2013.

More than 40 Major League baseball players will head to the San Diego area to mix a little business with pleasure when the Major League Baseball Players Trust holds its annual board meeting and fundraising events in the area between Wednesday, Jan. 9 and Friday, Jan. 11, 2013.

Brand USA, the new tourism marketing organization for the United States, and Delta Air Lines have signed on as global partners for the 2013 World Baseball Classic. Both sponsors will be incorporated into all aspects of the event, with full integration across the seven venues of the tournament and on all media platforms worldwide.

Sixteen fans, one representing each of the participating World Baseball Classic countries/territories, will cheer on their nation during the tournament from New York City as part of the "MLB Fan Cave: World Baseball Classic Edition." Fans may begin applying today at MLBFanCave.com/WBC to be a "Cave Dweller" and represent their National Teams inside the MLB Fan Cave. Entries -- which include an essay and video submission -- will be accepted through Jan. 11.

World Baseball Classic, Inc. today announced the final pool compositions, which include qualifier winners Brazil, Canada, Chinese Taipei and Spain, and the full tournament schedule for the 2013 World Baseball Classic, which will begin on Saturday, March 2, in Fukuoka, Japan, and Taichung, Taiwan. In addition, each of the 16 competing countries and territories announced two players who have committed early to compete in the Classic.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association today released the annual public report from the Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program's Independent Program Administrator.

Voices Against Brain Cancer announced that Major League Baseball Players Association Executive Director Michael Weiner is the recipient of the non-profit's 2012 Vision of Hope Award. Michael will receive his award during Voices Against Brain Cancer's annual "Join the Voices! Run/Walk" on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2012, in Central Park in New York at 8:15 a.m. The charitable event features a five-mile run, a scenic walk, kids' races and a fun family festival.

World Baseball Classic qualifiers taking place in Panama City, Panama, and New Taipei City, Taiwan, this week will feature several prominent Major Leaguers, including four All-Stars in free-agent shortstop Edgar Renteria, Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz and free-agent outfielders Johnny Damon and Carlos Lee. In addition, Major League Baseball's all-time saves leader Mariano Rivera of the Yankees will serve as a baseball ambassador in his native Panama.

Major League baseball players have announced the winners for their highest honors -- the Players Choice Awards -- in which the players themselves recognize their peers' most outstanding and inspiring performances. The Players Choice Awards winners were announced on MLB Network during an exclusive Players Choice Awards broadcast special presented by 2K Sports and benefitting the Major League Baseball Players Trust. Miguel Cabrera was named Player of the Year and AL Outstanding Player, and Chipper Jones was chosen as Marvin Miller Man of the Year.

Winners of the 2012 Players Choice Awards will be announced exclusively on MLB Network on Monday, Nov. 5, from 8-9 p.m. ET during the broadcast of "The 2012 Players Choice Awards Presented by 2K Sports." The Players Choice Awards program benefits the Major League Baseball Players Trust.

World Baseball Classic, Inc. (WBCI) today announced that MLB Network has been selected as the exclusive English-language telecast partner in the United States for both the 2013 and 2017 World Baseball Classic tournaments. The 2013 World Baseball Classic, which is the third edition of the tournament, will feature the world's best players representing their countries and territories.

Major League baseball players today announced the finalists for their highest honors -- the Players Choice Awards -- in which the players themselves recognize excellence on and off the field. Vying for top honor as 2012 Player of the Year are Miguel Cabrera of the Detroit Tigers, Andrew McCutchen of the Pittsburgh Pirates and standout rookie Mike Trout of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

With the MLB postseason rapidly approaching, the current list of most popular MLB jerseys mirrors the top of the standings, as players on postseason contenders dominate the list. Derek Jeter, Josh Hamilton and Ichiro Suzuki top the list, released jointly today by Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association, with rookie sensations Bryce Harper and Mike Trout rounding out the top five.

World Baseball Classic, Inc. today announced the international venues, pools, format and dates for the 2013 World Baseball Classic, which will begin play on Saturday, March 2. Japan, which has hosted a first-round pool at the Tokyo Dome in each of the previous two World Baseball Classics, will be home to first- and second-round pools in 2013. Opening-round contests in Pool A will be held in Fukuoka at the Fukuoka Yahoo! Japan Dome from March 2-6, featuring host Japan, China, Cuba (pending license approval) and a qualifier winner to be determined.

This evening during an awards dinner at Boston's Harvard Club, Medicines for Humanity (MFH), the Boston-based non-profit and non-governmental organization dedicated to reducing child mortality in impoverished communities worldwide, will present the Major League Baseball Players Trust with its Humanitarian of the Year Award.

The Office of the Commissioner of Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association jointly announced today that for purposes of determining the individual batting, slugging or on-base percentage champion, the last sentence of Official Baseball Rule 10.22(a) shall not be applicable for the 2012 season for any player who failed to obtain 502 plate appearances if such player served a drug suspension for violating the Joint Drug Program.

The 2013 World Baseball Classic gets underway this week in Jupiter, Fla., and Regensburg, Germany, with the playing of the first two of four qualifiers. France, Israel, South Africa and Spain will square off in Florida, and Canada, Czech Republic, Germany and Great Britain will do the same in Germany. The winners of each qualifier will advance to compete in the 2013 World Baseball Classic tournament next March.

Thousands of baseball fans participated in an Internet poll on www.MLBPLAYERS.com from Sept. 11-16 to determine which six players, one from each division, inspire others to higher levels of achievement by their on-field performances and contributions to their communities. From this list of 30 players, Adam Jones (Orioles) was tabbed to represent the American League East, Paul Konerko (White Sox) the AL Central, Michael Young (Rangers) the AL West, Chipper Jones (Braves) the National League East, Skip Schumaker (Cardinals) the NL Central and Barry Zito (Giants) the NL West.

Beginning today, fans voting online will help select the Major League baseball player whose on-field performance and contributions to his community inspire others to higher levels of achievement. Fan voting for the Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award will be conducted on www.MLBPLAYERS.com, the official website of Major League baseball players, through noon on Sunday, Sept. 16.

The Major League Baseball Players Association today announced that Executive Director Michael Weiner began treatment for a brain tumor on Monday, Aug. 20. Michael's treatments are expected to last about one month, and it is anticipated that he will continue to work out of the Union's New York office on a daily basis during this time.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association issued the following joint statement today about the testing protocols for testosterone under the Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program.

Earlier today at Roselawn Park in Cincinnati, Reds players Bill Bray, Chris Heisey, Sam LeCure and Drew Stubbs helped teach the game of baseball to their youth league counterparts, when the Major League Baseball Players Trust's City Clinics program stopped in Cincinnati.

Prior to this evening's game at Great American Ball Park, Reds players Todd Frazier, Chris Heisey, Sam LeCure and Drew Stubbs will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 children from the James J. Espy Club, Lower Price Hill from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Cincinnati, as the Major League Baseball Players Trust's Buses for Baseball program motors into Cincinnati.

On Thursday at Gallaudet University's Hoy Field in Washington, D.C., Nationals players Roger Bernadina, Ian Desmond and Edwin Jackson helped teach the game of baseball to their youth league counterparts, when the Major League Baseball Players Trust's City Clinics program stopped in the nation's capital.

Prior to this evening's game at Citizens Bank Park, Phillies players Brian Schneider and Shane Victorino will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 children from the Anna Sample Complex and Eleanor Corbett House, as the Major League Baseball Players Trust's Buses for Baseball program motors into Philadelphia.

Baseball fans have just two days remaining to bid on some memorable and unique player-related experiences currently up for bid on a fundraising auction taking place on CharityBuzz.com. Bidding for the current lot of available auction packages ends Thursday, June 21, between 12:05 p.m. ET and 1 p.m. ET. Proceeds from the auction benefit initiatives of the Players Trust, the 501(c)(3) charitable organization created and administered by the players themselves.

Prior to this evening's game at Tropicana Field, Rays players Matt Moore, Carlos Pena, Sean Rodriguez, Luke Scott and B.J. Upton will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 children from the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg, as the Major League Baseball Players Trust's Buses for Baseball program motors into Tampa Bay.

Earlier today at Grapeland Park in Miami, Marlins players Heath Bell, Chris Coghlan and Brett Hayes helped teach the game of baseball to their youth league counterparts, when the Major League Baseball Players Trust's City Clinics program kicked off its 2012 schedule.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association announced today that they have appointed Jeffrey M. Anderson, M.D., as the new independent program administrator of the Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association announced today that they have completed revisions to their Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program. The revisions reflect changes that were agreed upon during the recently completed collective bargaining negotiations, changes made as part of the parties' 2011 year-end review, and additional modifications made following the Ryan Braun arbitration decision.

Major League baseball players presented $150,000 in grants from the Major League Baseball Players Trust to six Volunteers of America programs that further the organization's mission to strengthen communities and build better lives for those in need. More than $1 million has been provided by the Players Trust to 65 Volunteers of America programs since the first grants were presented in 2003.

Major League baseball players today continued their support of earthquake and tsunami relief efforts in Japan by awarding a $310,000 grant from the Players Trust to nonprofit organization, Points of Light. The funds will be used by Points of Light's Japanese affiliate, Hands On Tokyo, to expand its mobile Community Café to serve as a cultural hub to help restore a sense of community to areas devastated by last year's twin disasters.

Prior to this evening's game at Minute Maid Park, Astros players Jason Castro, Jed Lowrie and Wesley Wright will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 children from the CAN DO Prevention Program of Volunteers of America-Texas, as the Major League Baseball Players Trust's Buses for Baseball program motors into Houston.

Prior to this evening's game at Progressive Field, Indians players Travis Hafner, Lou Marson, Justin Masterson and Vinnie Pestano will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 children from the Boys & Girls Club of Cleveland - West Side Club, as the Major League Baseball Players Trust's Buses for Baseball program motors into Cleveland.

The Major League Baseball Players Trust, Major League Baseball (MLB) and State Farm® are teaming up with Habitat for Humanity International in an effort to build new homes with families in Joplin, Mo., and Tuscaloosa, Ala., which were two of the communities devastated by the tornadoes in April and May of 2011. Nine homes will be built in these communities -- five in Joplin; four in Tuscaloosa, with two of them to be framed near Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City in the backdrop of the 83rd MLB All-Star Game.

Major League baseball players will award $2,000 college scholarships to 20 outstanding high school students in recognition of their dedication to community service and tireless efforts to encourage others to get involved with causes they believe in, it was announced today by the Major League Baseball Players Trust.

Derek Jeter of the New York Yankees, Cliff Lee of the Philadelphia Phillies and Albert Pujols of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim top the list of MLB most popular jerseys released jointly today by Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association, based on sales of official Majestic jerseys for the 2011 calendar year.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association, in partnership with Yomiuri, have announced that Gloops Japan Opening Series 2012 is being dedicated to celebrating the spirit of volunteerism in Japan.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association, in partnership with Yomiuri, will celebrate individuals who made extraordinary efforts to help others in the wake of last year's earthquake and tsunami prior to Game 1 of Gloops Japan Opening Series 2012.

World Baseball Classic, Inc. (WBCI) today announced the venues and pools of the new qualifiers for the 2013 World Baseball Classic. The winners of each qualifying pool will advance to compete in the 2013 World Baseball Classic tournament next March.

Gloops, a Japanese social application provider that develops and operates social applications for mobile phones, has been named the title sponsor for Japan Opening Series 2012. Major League Baseball will open its season in Tokyo for the fourth time when the Oakland Athletics take on the Seattle Mariners in the Gloops Japan Opening Series 2012, a two-game series March 28 and 29.

The 2012 postseason will feature a 10-team format that includes two additional Wild Card clubs and an elimination game in each league prior to the Division Series, Baseball Commissioner Allan H. (Bud) Selig announced today.

Michael Weiner, executive director of the Major League Baseball Players Association, and Steve Rogers, former teammate of Gary Carter and current MLBPA Special Assistant, today issued statements upon learning of the passing of the Hall of Fame catcher.

During its first official meeting in New York on Jan. 9, the Major League Baseball Players Association and Major League Baseball's newly-created International Talent Committee agreed to broaden its resources by identifying and seeking partnerships with a wide variety of outside sources with direct knowledge of international baseball operations and cultures.

In accordance with the recently negotiated Basic Agreement, the Major League Baseball Players Association and Office of the Commissioner today announced their respective appointees to the International Talent Committee responsible for discussing the development and acquisition of international players.

Major League Baseball Players Association Executive Director Michael Weiner, who was traveling to Latin America on Monday to meet with active Union members, today, upon his arrival in Venezuela, issued the following statement regarding Ryan Braun.

Brand Affinity Technologies, Inc. (BAT), the company reinventing endorsement and celebrity marketing, announced today they have signed a licensing agreement with the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA). BAT becomes the first company to offer advertisers a streamlined endorsement process utilizing three or more Major League baseball players, for both traditional and digital media campaigns.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association today released the annual public report from the Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program's independent program administrator.

The Major League Baseball Players Association's Executive Board voted unanimously to ratify the labor contracts recently negotiated with the Major League Baseball owners, including the Basic Agreement, Joint Drug Agreement and Benefit Plan Agreement, it was announced today by Major League Baseball Players Association Executive Director Michael Weiner.

Major League Baseball Players Association Executive Director Michael Weiner today issued the following statement upon learning of the passing of Jerry Clothier, the Philadelphia Phillies executive and longtime member of the Pension Committee of the Major League Baseball Players Benefit Plan.

As a result of the collective bargaining process, the Commissioner's Office and the Players Association have agreed to modify free agent Draft pick compensation for a select group of Type A free agents.

Major League Baseball Commissioner Allan H. (Bud) Selig and Major League Baseball Players Association Executive Director Michael Weiner announced today that MLB and the MLBPA have agreed to a five-year collective bargaining agreement that will allow play to continue uninterrupted through the 2016 season.

Michael Weiner, executive director of the Major League Baseball Players Association, today issued the following statement upon learning of the passing of 24-year-old Greg Halman, Seattle Mariners outfielder.

Major League baseball players today announced the winners for their highest honors -- the Players Choice Awards -- in which the players themselves recognize their peers' most outstanding and inspiring performances. The Awards announcement was made this evening on MLB Network during an exclusive Players Choice Awards broadcast special presented by 2K Sports and benefiting the Major League Baseball Players Trust.

Winners of the 2011 Players Choice Awards will be announced exclusively on MLB Network on Thursday, Nov. 3, from 8-9 p.m. ET during the broadcast of The 2011 Players Choice Awards Presented by 2K Sports.

The Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) and the Office of the Commissioner today announced that in connection with the collective bargaining process they have agreed to delay the start of the free agency period.

Major League baseball players today announced the finalists for their highest honors -- the Players Choice Awards -- in which the players themselves recognize excellence on and off the field. Winners of the 2011 Players Choice Awards will be announced exclusively on MLB Network, Thursday, Nov. 3, from 8-9 p.m. ET during the broadcast of The 2011 Players Choice Awards Presented by 2K Sports. The Players Choice Awards program benefits the Major League Baseball Players Trust.

Major League Baseball will open its season in Tokyo for the fourth time when the Oakland Athletics take on the Seattle Mariners in Japan Opening Series 2012, a two-game set scheduled for March 28 and 29, Major League Baseball (MLB) and the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) announced Wednesday.

Major League Baseball (MLB) and the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) announced that a team of Major Leaguers will travel to Taiwan this November to play against the Chinese Taipei national team in the 2011 Taiwan All-Star Series.

Panini America (www.paniniamerica.net), the world's largest sports and entertainment collectibles company and Major League Baseball Players Association announced Thursday a multi-year trading card agreement. The deal secures Panini's presence in America's Pastime and adds to its U.S. sports license roster, making Panini the only trading card company in the world with licenses in all four of the U.S. major sports.

Thousands of baseball fans participated in an Internet poll on www.MLBPLAYERS.com between Sept. 9-12 to determine which six players, one from each division, inspire others to higher levels of achievement by their on-field performances and contributions to their communities. From this list of 30 players, David Robertson (New York Yankees) was tabbed to represent the AL East, Paul Konerko (Chicago White Sox) the AL Central, Michael Young (Texas Rangers) the AL West, David Wright (New York Mets) the NL East, Adam Wainwright (St. Louis Cardinals) the NL Central and Troy Tulowitzki (Colorado Rockies) the NL West.

Beginning Friday, fans voting online will help select the Major League baseball player whose on-field performance and contributions to his community inspire others to higher levels of achievement. Fan-voting for the Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award will be conducted on www.MLBPLAYERS.com, the official website of Major League baseball players, through 12 p.m. ET Monday, Sept. 12.

During an on-field ceremony prior to Wednesday night's game, Twins players Drew Butera and Matt Capps will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor eight Twin Cities-area high school students serving as Action Team captains. The Action Team is a national youth volunteer program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

Prior to Tuesday evening's game at Oriole Park at Camden Yards, Orioles players Josh Bell, Jeremy Guthrie and Adam Jones will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 parents and children from the Cool Kids Campaign, as the Major League Baseball Players Trust's Buses for Baseball program motors into Baltimore.

On Wednesday at James "Cool Papa" Bell Stadium in St. Louis, Cardinals players Mitchell Boggs, Daniel Descalso, Jon Jay, Kyle Lohse, Lance Lynn and Nick Punto helped teach the game of baseball to 250 of their youth league counterparts, when the Major League Baseball Players Trust's City Clinics program made a stop along the Mississippi.

Prior to Tuesday night's game at Busch Stadium, Cardinals infielder Nick Punto and teammates will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 children from Saving Black Minds, as the Major League Baseball Players Trust's Buses for Baseball program motors into St. Louis.

During an on-field ceremony prior to Monday night's game, Red Sox shortstop Jed Lowrie will represent all Major Leaguers when he honors five Boston-area high school students serving as Action Team captains. The Action Team is a national youth volunteer program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

On Wednesday in New York's Central Park, Mets players Chris Capuano, Nick Evans, Jon Niese, Bobby Parnell and Ronny Paulino helped teach the game of baseball to 250 of their youth league counterparts, when the Major League Baseball Players Trust's City Clinics program made a stop in the Big Apple.

Major League Baseball's first-ever "Social Media Derby" successfully integrated social media into Monday's State Farm Home Run Derby (@StateFarm#HRDerby), resulting in a significant volume of online activity, considerable increases in Twitter followings for the participating MLB All-Stars, as well as increased television ratings and viewership for the event on ESPN.

Major League Baseball, MLB Advanced Media and the Major League Baseball Players Association today announced that, for the first time ever, players on the field will interact with fans via social media during the State Farm Home Run Derby (@StateFarm#HRDerby), Monday, July 11, at Chase Field in Phoenix and televised nationally on ESPN at 8 p.m. Eastern/5 p.m. Pacific.

Prior to this evening's game at Kaufmann Stadium, Royals players Billy Butler, Jeff Francis, Mitch Maier and Matt Treanor will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 children from Billy Butler's Hit-It-A-Ton campaign, as the Major League Baseball Players Trust's Buses for Baseball program motors into Kansas City.

Major League Baseball Players Association executive director Michael Weiner today issued the following statement regarding the 2011 All-Star Game and related activities to be held in Phoenix on July 10-12.

During an on-field ceremony prior to Thursday night's game, Nationals players Alex Cora and Ryan Zimmerman will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor nine Washington-area high school students serving as Action Team captains. The Action Team is a national youth volunteer program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

Polar Mobile (www.polarmobile.com) and the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) are announcing a multi-year agreement with Polar Mobile to develop and power MLBPA mobile products. MLBPA and Polar Mobile plan to launch a series of mobile initiatives, including apps that connect fans with their favorite big leaguers.

Prior to Monday nights game at Target Field, Twins players Matt Capps, Michael Cuddyer, Jason Repko and Danny Valencia will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 students from Volunteers of America-Minnesota, as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program motors into Minneapolis.

During an on-field ceremony prior to Tuesday night's game, Rangers designated hitter Michael Young and Astros outfielder Hunter Pence will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor 18 Dallas and Houston-area high school students serving as Action Team captains.

Prior to Tuesday night's game at Miller Park, Brewers players LaTroy Hawkins, Casey McGehee, Wil Nieves and Randy Wolf will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 students from Our Next Generation, as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program motors into Milwaukee.

The Major League Baseball Players Association unveiled the Players Choice Signature Series jerseys and T-shirts designed by Yankees Robinson Cano, Jorge Posada, Mariano Rivera and Alex Rodriguez on Facebook.com. The players designed the apparel exclusively for their fans, with each product expressing their unique personalities and attitudes.

During Volunteers of Americas national conference in Sioux Falls, S.D., Major League baseball players presented $150,000 in grants from the Major League Baseball Players Trust to five Volunteers of America programs that further the organizations mission to strengthen communities and build better lives for those in need.

During a press conference at AT&T Park on Friday, Giants players Matt Cain, Tim Lincecum and Cody Ross unveiled the Players Choice Signature Series jerseys and T-shirts they designed exclusively for their fans, with each product expressing their unique personalities and attitudes.

During an on-field ceremony prior to Thursday night's game, Colorado Rockies players Ryan Spilborghs, Huston Street and Eric Young, Jr. will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor 16 area high school students serving as Action Team captains. The Action Team is a national youth volunteer program in which Major League players and high school students inspire and train the next generation of volunteers.

Prior to Thursday evenings game at Coors Field, Rockies players Ubaldo Jimenez and Ryan Spilborghs will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 low-income elementary school students and children from the Brandon Center/Theodora House, as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program motors into Denver.

During an on-field ceremony prior to Tuesday nights game, Reds players Paul Janish, Nick Masset and Drew Stubbs will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor seven area high school students serving as Action Team captains. The Action Team is a national youth volunteer program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

During a press conference at the Majestic Clubhouse store on Yawkee Way in Boston, Red Sox players Carl Crawford, Adrian Gonzalez and Kevin Youkilis unveiled the Players Choice Signature Series jerseys and T-shirts they designed exclusively for their fans, with each product expressing their unique personalities and attitudes.

World Baseball Classic, Inc. (WBCI) announced Wednesday, with the endorsement of the tournament Steering Committee, the introduction of a new World Baseball Classic Qualifying Round for the 2013 World Baseball Classic which will expand the competitive field from 16 to 28 countries. The new round will feature 16 teams divided into four pools of four teams each.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) are joining together to contribute $200,000 toward relief efforts for tornado victims in the Midwest and the Southeast. The funds from MLB and the MLBPA are being donated to Heart to Heart International, a Kansas City-based humanitarian organization that has been providing technical assistance, volunteer support and necessary resources, including their Mobile Health clinic, in disaster areas in the Midwest and Southeast.

During an on-field ceremony prior to Tuesday nights game, Phillies players Ben Francisco, Ryan Howard, Jimmy Rollins and Shane Victorino will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor 12 area high school students serving as Action Team captains.

Prior to Friday evenings game at Angel Stadium, Angels players Erik Aybar, Trevor Bell, Hank Conger, Scott Downs, Torii Hunter, Howie Kendrick, Joel Pineiro, Mark Trumbo and Vernon Wells will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 children from Covenant House California, as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program motors into Los Angeles.

During an on-field ceremony prior to Thursday nights game, San Diego Padres players Luke Gregerson and Tim Stauffer will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor seven area high school students serving as Action Team captains. The Action Team is a national youth volunteer program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

On Wednesday, Major Leaguer David Pauley of the Mariners and high school student leaders from Seattle-area Action Teams will step up to the plate to help hungry families and seniors at the North Seattle Food Bank (11 a.m. local time/9041 Greenwood Avenue North).

Major League Baseball Players Association executive director Michael Weiner today issued a statement regarding civil rights and baseballs role in furthering the civil rights movement. Weiners statement is being issued in advance of this weekends Civil Rights Game and related activities in Atlanta, Ga.

Major League baseball players today continued their support of earthquake relief efforts in Haiti by awarding a $50,000 grant from the Players Trust to international nonprofit organization Physicians for Peace. The funds will be used by the humanitarian organization to provide prostheses and rehabilitation to amputee victims in Haiti.

Major League baseball players and Volunteers of America are supporting their ongoing efforts to help train and inspire the next generation of volunteers by launching a new radio and TV public service campaign titled Are You In?

During an on-field ceremony prior to tonights game, New York Mets players Pedro Beato, R.A. Dickey and David Wright will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor 12 high school students serving as captains of New York-area Action Teams®, part of the national youth volunteer program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

In a pregame ceremony prior to this evenings game, Detroit Tigers outfielder Austin Jackson and infielder Brandon Inge will receive prestigious 2010 Players Choice Awards from teammate Max Scherzer -- a member of the MLBPAs Executive Board. Scherzer will be representing his Major League peers when he presents Jackson with the AL Outstanding Rookie award and Inge the Marvin Miller Man of the Year award.

The Office of the Commissioner of Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association jointly announced today that they have agreed to make an annual payment to players who retired before 1980 but who did not have enough service time to qualify for a pension benefit under the Major League Baseball Players Benefit Plan.

During an on-field ceremony prior to tonights game, Tampa Bay Rays players Johnny Damon, David Price and Kelly Shoppach will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor nine high school students serving as captains of the Plant City High School (Fla.) Action Team®, part of the national service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

Major League baseball players will award $1,500 college scholarships to 28 outstanding high school students in recognition of their dedication to community service and tireless efforts to encourage others to get involved with causes they believe in, it was announced today by the Major League Baseball Players Trust.

In a pregame ceremony prior to this afternoon's game, Colorado Rockies outfielder Carlos Gonzalez will receive two prestigious Players Choice Awards as 2010 NL Outstanding Player and Player of the Year. Teammate Ryan Spilborghs -- a member of the MLBPAs Executive Board -- will represent his Major League peers in presenting the awards to Gonzalez in recognition of his outstanding performances in 2010.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association announced that they have adopted a series of protocols under its new joint policy regarding concussions, which will be in effect from Opening Day forward.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association are joining together to contribute $500,000 toward earthquake and tsunami relief efforts in Japan to UNICEF and will be encouraging baseball fans to support the effort during Opening Week and dates following.

Derek Jeter of the New York Yankees, Joe Mauer of the Minnesota Twins and Roy Halladay of the Philadelphia Phillies top the list of MLB most popular jerseys released jointly Wednesday by Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association, based on sales of official Majestic jerseys for the 2010 calendar year.

On Tuesday, Craig Counsell, Milwaukee Brewers infielder and long-time official of the Major League Baseball Players Association, today issued the following statement in support of Wisconsins unionized workers.

On Tuesday, Major League Baseball players continued their support of earthquake relief and recovery efforts in Haiti by awarding a combined $10,000 in grants from the Players Trust to PROJECT C.U.R.E. and Medicines for Humanity.

Major League Baseball Players Association executive director Michael Weiner issued the following statement in response to the announcement that Don Fehr has been named National Hockey League Players Association executive director.

A spokeswoman for the U.S. Justice Department announced on Friday, Dec. 10, that the government would not ask the United States Supreme Court to reverse a court of appeals ruling that the government had illegally seized records regarding Major League Baseball's 2003 survey-drug testing. The deadline for asking the Supreme Court to review the case -- by filing a petition for certiorari -- was Monday, Dec. 13.

For decades fans have been lining up against ballpark railings game after game for a chance to talk to their favorite players. Imagine being able to see your favorite players answer your questions directly? Today VYou and the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) deliver the players directly to you.

On Wednesday, Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association released the following annual public report from the Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program's independent program administrator.

Baltimore Orioles pitcher Rick VandenHurk is leading a group of Major League Baseball players on a tour of his native Netherlands and Belgium. Players joining VandenHurk include John Baker (Florida Marlins), Jeremy Guthrie (Baltimore Orioles), Greg Halman (Seattle Mariners) and Adam Jones (Baltimore Orioles). In addition, former Major Leaguer Brady Anderson is serving as an instructor.

In a season marked by extraordinary performances on and off the field, Major League Baseball players bestowed their highest honors on two players -- Colorado Rockies outfielder Carlos Gonzalez as Player of the Year and Detroit Tigers infielder Brandon Inge as the Marvin Miller Man of the Year.

In a season in which he led the National League in average, hits and total bases, Colorado Rockies outfielder Carlos Gonzalez was named the Players Choice Award winner for Outstanding Player in the NL.

In a season full of exceptional rookie accomplishments, Detroit Tigers outfielder Austin Jackson and San Francisco Giants catcher Buster Posey were voted by their peers as tops in Major League Baseball's 2010 freshman class.

Major League Baseball players have chosen finalists for their highest honors, the Players Choice Awards, in which the players themselves recognize excellence on and off the field. Winners of the 2010 Players Choice Awards will be announced exclusively in a series of segments featuring interviews with each winning player on ESPN Radio beginning Monday, Oct. 25, and continuing through Friday, Oct. 29. The 2010 Players Choice Awards, presented by Majestic Athletic and 2K Sports, benefit the Major League Baseball Players Trust.

The following statement was issued Thursday by the Major League Baseball Players Association: Today, the MLBPA is pleased to announce that its Executive Board has approved an agreement that will modify certain aspects of the free-agent system for the 2010-11 and 2011-12 offseasons.

Gene Orza, the Major League Baseball Players Associations Chief Operating Officer, today announced his retirement plans, bringing an end to an illustrious 26-year career with the union. Orza will remain on staff through March 31, 2011.

On Monday, the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit issued a revised opinion in favor of the Major League Baseball Players Association, holding that the seizure by the Government of test results from Major League Baseball's 2003 drug testing program was unconstitutional. Under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement, the testing results were intended to be anonymous and confidential.

Thousands of baseball fans participated in an Internet poll on www.MLBPLAYERS.com between September 8 and 12, to determine which six players, one from each division, inspire others to higher levels of achievement by their on-field performances and contributions to their communities. From this list of 30 players, Jorge Posada (NY Yankees) was tabbed to represent the AL East, Brandon Inge (Detroit Tigers) the AL Central, Torii Hunter (Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim) the AL West, Chipper Jones (Atlanta Braves) the NL East, Albert Pujols (St. Louis Cardinals) the NL Central and Troy Tulowitzki (Colorado Rockies) the NL West.

Major League Baseball Players Association Executive Director Michael Weiner issued a statement in response to the news that the National Hockey League Players Association's Executive Board has endorsed the recommendation of its Search Committee to hire former MLBPA Executive Director Donald Fehr.

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), through the Major League Baseball Dominican Development Alliance (MLB-DDA), has matched a recent $50,000 grant from the Major League Baseball Players Trust to Medicines for Humanity, which will expand medical services in underserved communities in the Dominican Republic.

Beginning Sept. 8, fans voting online will help select the Major League Baseball player whose on-field performance and contributions to his community inspire others to higher levels of achievement. Fan voting for the Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award will be conducted on www.MLBPLAYERS.com, the official website of Major League Baseball players, through Sunday, Sept. 12.

This Labor Day, people who work in the sports, entertainment and news media industries -- baseball players, actors, recording artists, Broadway performers, broadcasters and more -- are coming together on Twitter to celebrate unions. With Oscar, Grammy, Emmy, Tony, Pulitzer, and Players Choice awards and nominations under their belts, they all have one thing in common: Theyre union members.

Justin Maxwell of the Washington Nationals and high school student leaders from the Washington Action Team will join together to help homeless adults living at Volunteers of America's Residential Treatment Center in Arlington, Va., on Tuesday, Aug. 24.

Thursday, at the MLB Urban Youth Academy in Compton, Calif., (10 a.m.-1 p.m. PT), big leaguers Jamey Carroll, Andre Ethier, Clayton Kershaw and James Loney of the Los Angeles Dodgers will help teach the game of baseball to 250 of their youth league counterparts, when the Major League Baseball Players Trust's City Clinics program stops in Southern California.

On Wednesday, the Major League Baseball Players Association filed a grievance against the New York Mets and the Commissioner's Office challenging yesterday's actions taken against relief pitcher Francisco Rodriguez. The grievance challenges both Francisco's placement on the disqualified list and the conversion of his contract to non-guaranteed status.

Prior to Wednesday evenings game at Dodger Stadium, Dodgers players Ron Belliard, Jamey Carroll, Kenley Jansen, Scott Podsednik and Jeff Weaver will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 youth from the MLB Urban Youth Baseball Academy in Compton as the Major League Baseball Players Trust's Buses for Baseball program motors into Los Angeles.

Major Leaguers Andrew Bailey, Craig Breslow, Rajai Davis and Brad Ziegler of the Oakland As and high school student leaders from the Bay Area Action Team will join together for a day of games and other fun activities for low- and moderate-income children in Hayward, Calif., on Tuesday, August 17.

On August 19, at MLB Urban Youth Academy (10 a.m.-1 p.m. PT), big leaguers Jamey Carroll, Andre Ethier, Clayton Kershaw, Ted Lilly and James Loney of the Los Angeles Dodgers will help teach the game of baseball to children from Los Angeles-area Boys and Girls Clubs and the MLB Urban Youth Academy, when the Major League Baseball Players Trust's City Clinics program makes a stop in Compton, Calif.

Prior to Wednesday evenings game at Busch Stadium, Cardinals players Felipe Lopez, Albert Pujols, Adam Wainwright and Randy Winn will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 children from the Pujols Family Foundation as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program motors into St. Louis.

On Tuesday, August 3, at RailCats Stadium, 250 Gary, Ind., youth will join hometown heroes Kenny Lofton, LaTroy Hawkins and other current and former Major Leaguers for Players Trust's City Clinics program in Gary.

Prior to Monday evenings game at PNC Park at North Shore, Pirates players Garrett Jones, Jeff Karstens, Paul Maholm, Andrew McCutchen and Evan Meek will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 children from the Volunteers of Americas All of Us Care program as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program motors into Pittsburgh.

On July 30, at Kansas Citys Cleveland Field (10 a.m.-1 p.m. CT), big leaguers Mike Aviles, Brian Bannister, Billy Butler and Mitch Maier of the Kansas City Royals will help teach the game of baseball to 250 of their youth league counterparts, when the Major League Baseball Players Trust's City Clinics program makes its first visit to Kansas City.

Prior to Thursday evening's game at Kauffman Stadium, Royals players Willie Bloomquist, Billy Butler, Bruce Chen, Chris Getz and Jason Kendall will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 children from the Hit It a Ton Foundation as the Major League Baseball Players Trust's Buses for Baseball program motors into Kansas City.

Prior to Wednesday evening's game at U.S. Cellular Field, White Sox players Gavin Floyd, Paul Konerko, Mark Kotsay, Juan Pierre, Matt Thornton and Omar Vizquel will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 youth from the Holy Cross/Immaculate Heart of Mary youth program as the Major League Baseball Players Trust's Buses for Baseball program motors into Chicago.

Prior to Tuesday evening's game at Miller Park, Brewers players Chris Capuano, Craig Counsell, Corey Hart, Trevor Hoffman and Rickie Weeks will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 students from Our Next Generation as the Major League Baseball Players Trust's Buses for Baseball program motors into Milwaukee.

On July 27, at Milwaukees Beckum-Stapleton Little League Field (10 a.m.-1 p.m. CT), big leaguers John Axford, Zach Braddock, Chris Capuano, LaTroy Hawkins and Kameron Loe of the Milwaukee Brewers will help teach the game of baseball to 250 of their youth league counterparts, when the Major League Baseball Players Trust's City Clinics program makes its first visit to the Milwaukee area.

Friday, in Central Parks North Meadow (11 a.m.-1 p.m.), big leaguers Joba Chamberlain, Sergio Mitre, David Robertson and Nick Swisher of the New York Yankees will help teach the game of baseball to 250 of their youth league counterparts, when the Major League Baseball Players Trusts City Clinics program makes its first visit to New York City.

On Thursday, Major League Baseball Players Association Executive Director Michael Weiner issued a statement in reaction to the announcement by Major League Baseball that Minor League players will be subject to blood testing for HGH.

Brewers players John Axford, Zach Braddock, Chris Capuano, Kameron Loe and Dave Riske will join 250 children from Milwaukee-area Little Leagues and Boys and Girls Clubs at the Players Trusts City Clinics program on Tuesday, July 27, at Beckum-Stapleton Field.

Yankees players Joba Chamberlain, Sergio Mitre, David Robertson, CC Sabathia and Nick Swisher will join 250 New York City youth at the Players Trusts City Clinics program on Friday, July 23, at Central Parks North Meadow.

Prior to Tuesday evening's game at Turner Field, Braves players Matt Diaz, Troy Glaus, Eric Hinske and Dave Ross will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 children from The Villages at Carver Family YMCA as the Major League Baseball Players Trust's Buses for Baseball program motors into Atlanta.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) are teaming up with the White House, the Ad Council and First Lady Michelle Obama in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), to support Let's Move!, a campaign started by the First Lady with the goal of solving the challenge of childhood obesity so America's youngest children will reach adulthood at a healthy weight.

Major League Baseball, the Major League Baseball Players Association and the White House will announce a new joint initiative. Following the announcement, the players will conduct a clinic on the field for 50 young baseball players from local RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities) leagues and Boys & Girls Clubs.

Prior to Thursday evenings game at AT&T Park, Giants players Jeremy Affeldt, Buster Posey, Sergio Romo and Todd Wellemeyer will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 children from Willie Mays Boys & Girls Club at Hunters Point as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program motors into San Francisco.

Prior to Thursday evening's game at Citizens Bank Park, Phillies players Brad Lidge and Ryan Madson will provide everlasting memories to 50 residents from the Anna Sample Complex and Eleanor Corbett House family shelters, as the Major League Baseball Players Trust's Buses for Baseball program motors into Philadelphia.

Prior to Thursday evening's game at Chase Field, Diamondbacks players Aaron Heilman and Kelly Johnson will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 children and teens from the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Scottsdale as the Major League Baseball Players Trust's Buses for Baseball program motors into Phoenix.

Prior to Wednesday night's game at Minute Maid Park, Astros players Geoff Blum, Jeff Keppinger and Brandon Lyon will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 children from CAN DO (Community and Neighborhood Drug Offensive) as the Major League Baseball Players Trust's Buses for Baseball program motors into Houston.

Prior to Wednesday night's game at Nationals Park, Nationals players Mike Morse, Drew Storen and Tyler Walker will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 children from Loudoun Homeless Services Center as the Major League Baseball Players Trust's Buses for Baseball program motors into Washington, D.C.

Prior to Wednesday night's game at Rogers Centre, Blue Jays players John Buck, Aaron Hill, Casey Janssen, Fred Lewis, John McDonald, Brandon Morrow and Vernon Wells will provide everlasting memories to a
group of 10 SickKids patients, along with their family and friends, as the Major League Baseball Players Trust's Buses for Baseball program motors into Toronto.

On Tuesday, June 29, The Major League Baseball Players Trust's City Clinics program makes its second visit to Carolina, Puerto Ricos Ciudad Deportiva Roberto Clemente, when Chris Coghlan, Anibal Sanchez and Wes Helms of the Florida Marlins and Chris Carter, Ike Davis and Ruben Tejada of the New York Mets host more than 200 Puerto Rican youth in a free baseball skills clinic.

Fifty children from the Tommie Allen Recreation Center in Dallas are attending tonights Texas Rangers game as invited guests of the players, when the Major League Baseball Players Trust's Buses for Baseball program motors into Arlington.

On Thursday, June 10, during a press conference at Target Field, Minnesota Twins players J.J. Hardy, Justin Morneau, Joe Nathan, Nick Punto and Kevin Slowey unveiled the Players Choice Signature Series jerseys, T-shirts and caps they designed exclusively for their fans, with each product expressing their unique personalities and attitudes.

On Wednesday, June 9, during a press conference at Citi Field, New York Mets players Jason Bay, Jeff Francoeur and Jose Reyes unveiled the Players Choice Signature Series jerseys, T-shirts and caps they designed exclusively for their fans, with each product expressing their unique personalities and attitudes. Items designed by Carlos Beltran (injured) and Johan Santana (scheduled to pitch that evening) also were unveiled.

During an on-field ceremony prior to Wednesday night's game, Colorado Rockies player Ryan Spilborghs will represent all Major Leaguers when he honors 23 high school students serving as captains of the Denver Action Team®, part of the national service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

On Thursday, June 10, during a press conference at Target Field, the Major League Baseball Players Association and Minnesota Twins players J.J. Hardy, Justin Morneau, Joe Nathan, Nick Punto and Kevin Slowey will unveil the Players Choice Signature Series jerseys, T-shirts and caps the players designed exclusively for their fans, with each product expressing their unique personalities and attitudes.

On Wednesday, June 9, during a press conference at Citi Field, the Major League Baseball Players Association and New York Mets players Jason Bay, Jeff Francoeur and Jose Reyes will unveil the Players Choice Signature Series jerseys, T-shirts and caps the players designed exclusively for their fans, with each product expressing their unique personalities and attitudes.

Major League baseball players presented $150,000 in grants from the Major League Baseball Players Trust to six Volunteers of America programs that further the organizations mission to strengthen communities and build better lives for those in need.

The Partnership for a Drug-Free America and the Major League Baseball Players
Association (MLBPA) on Thursday introduced a new online campaign, "Healthy Competition: A Resource for Parents," that offers unique insight from Major League Baseball players on raising healthy teens and student-athletes.

Prior to Wednesday evenings game at Comerica Park in Detroit, Tigers players Brennan Boesch, Adam Everett, Brandon Inge, Austin Jackson, Rick Porcello, Scott Sizemore and Justin Verlander helped provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 students from the University Prep Academy, as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program motored into Detroit.

On Friday, June 4, during a press conference at a Philadelphia Modell's Sporting Goods store, the Major League Baseball Players Association and Philadelphia Phillies players Cole Hamels, Raul Ibanez, Jimmy Rollins, Shane Victorino and Jayson Werth will unveil the Players Choice Signature Series jerseys, T-shirts and caps the players designed exclusively for their fans, with each product expressing their unique personalities and attitudes.

Prior to Wednesday evenings game at Safeco Field in Seattle, Mariners players David Aardsma, Erik Bedard, Brandon League, Ian Snell and Mike Sweeney will provide everlasting memories to a group of 50 students from Mentoring Children of Promise, as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program motors into Seattle.

During an on-field ceremony prior to Wednesday night's game, New York Mets players Alex Cora, Jeff Francoeur and Gary Matthews Jr. will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor 12 high school students serving as captains of the New York Action Team®, part of the national service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

During batting practice prior to Thursday night's game, Chicago White Sox players Mark Kotsay, Jake Peavy, A.J. Pierzynski and J.J. Putz will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor five high school students serving as captains of the Chicago Action Team®, part of the national service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

On Tuesday, May 18, Major League Baseball players Ben Francisco, Ryan Howard and Shane Victorino are scheduled to join local high school students from the Philadelphia Action Team® youth volunteer program and volunteers from The Home Depot to build a gazebo, picnic and recreation area for seniors living at Volunteers of Americas Lindenwold Towers.

During an on-field ceremony prior to Monday night's game, Oakland As players Craig Breslow, Eric Chavez, Rajai Davis and Brad Ziegler will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor nine high school students serving as captains of the Oakland Action Team®, part of the national service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

During an on-field ceremony prior to Friday night's game, Pittsburgh Pirates players Joel Hanrahan and Ross Ohlendorf will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor eight area high school students serving as Captains of the Pittsburgh Action Team®, part of the national service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

During an on-field ceremony prior to Wednesday's game, Cincinnati Reds players Jay Bruce, Mike Lincoln and Nick Masset will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor eight high school students serving as captains of the Cincinnati Action Team®, part of the national service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

During an on-field ceremony prior to Tuesday nights game, Cleveland Indians players Russell Branyan and Matt LaPorta will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor nine high school students serving as captains of the Cleveland Action Team®, part of the national service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

Prior to Tuesday evenings game at Progressive Field in Cleveland, Indians players Travis Hafner, Austin Kearns, Jensen Lewis, Grady Sizemore and Jamey Wright will provide everlasting memories to a group
of children from Asian Services in Action as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program motors into Cleveland.

In a pregame ceremony Friday night at Busch Stadium, St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Albert Pujols and pitchers Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright will receive prestigious Players Choice Awards in recognition of their outstanding performances in 2009. Pitchers Kyle McClellan -- a member of the MLBPAs Executive Board -- and Trever Miller will represent their Major League peers in presenting the awards.

During an on-field ceremony prior to Wednesdays game, Tampa Bay Rays players Gabe Kapler, Carlos Pena and Kelly Shoppach will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor seven high school students serving as Captains of the Tampa Action Team®, part of the national service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

Tampa Bay Rays players Jason Bartlett, Pat Burrell, Carlos Pena, Andy Sonnanstine and Dan Wheeler will host a Major League Baseball Players Trust Buses for Baseball event prior to the April 28th game against the Oakland As. The players will welcome 50 students from St. Josephs School in Tampa, Fla.

In a pregame ceremony April 23, Chicago White Sox second baseman Gordon Beckham will receive a prestigious Players Choice Award as 2009 AL Outstanding Rookie. Paul Konerko, Gordons teammate and a member of the MLBPAs Executive Board, will represent his American League peers in presenting the award to Gordon.

Major League baseball players will award $1,500 college scholarships to 27 outstanding high school students -- each a member of the Action Team® national youth volunteer program -- in recognition of their dedication to community service and tireless efforts to encourage others to get involved with causes they believe in, it was announced April 22 by the Major League Baseball Players Trust.

Prior to the April 20th game at Petco Park in San Diego, Padres players Heath Bell, Jon Garland, Adrian Gonzalez, Jerry Hairston Jr., Nick Hundley and Tim Stauffer will provide everlasting memories to a group of 28 students from the High Tech High Chula Vista baseball program, as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts "Buses for Baseball" program motors into San Diego.

Major League baseball players are honoring the sacrifices made by our nations wounded warriors by launching an exclusive line of military-themed licensed products to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project, it was jointly announced April 19 by the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) and the Wounded Warrior Project.

In a pregame ceremony on Saturday, April 17, New York Yankees centerfielder Curtis Granderson will receive a prestigious Players Choice Award as the 2009 Marvin Miller Man of the Year. In Curtiss honor, the Players Trust contributes $50,000 to the Grand Kids Foundation.

In a pregame ceremony on Aptil 12, Toronto Blue Jays second baseman Aaron Hill will receive a prestigious Players Choice Award as the 2009 AL Comeback Player. Vernon Wells, Aarons teammate and a member of the MLBPAs Executive Board, will represent his American League peers in presenting the award to Aaron.

In a pregame ceremony on April 9, Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Zack Greinke will receive a prestigious Players Choice Award as the 2009 AL Outstanding Pitcher. Selected in a secret ballot of all American League players, Zack will receive the Players Choice Award in recognition of his exceptional season.

The average salary of a Major League Baseball player on Opening Day in 2010 is $3,340,133, it was announced Tuesday by the Major League Baseball Players Association. This is the sixth consecutive season in which the Opening Day average salary has increased.

The Florida Marlins will host the New York Mets in three Major League Baseball games at Hiram Bithorn Stadium in San Juan, Puerto Rico, June 28-30, MLB and the Major League Baseball Players Association announced Thursday. The three-game set in Puerto Rico will be part of the 2010 MLB Championship Season and will be home games for the Florida Marlins.

Major League Baseball Players Association Executive Director Michael Weiner today announced that former 15-year Major League veteran Tony Clark has been hired by the MLBPA as director of player relations. In this newly-created position, Tony will oversee the Unions expanded efforts in the areas of membership communications and education. Tony also will play a major role in future rounds of collective bargaining.

Major League Baseball Players Association Executive Director Michael Weiner today announced that Steve Fehr has been named Special Counsel. Todays announcement formalizes a role Steve has held for the past 23 years while serving as outside counsel to the MLBPA.

The following statement was issued today by the Major League Baseball Players Association regarding HGH testing. "Human growth hormone is banned under our Joint Drug Program. Discipline has been imposed against players who have been found to have used HGH. We do not test currently for HGH, because no scientifically validated urine test exists. Our program calls for immediate and automatic implementation of urine testing for HGH once a scientifically validated test is available." Click the link above to read the rest of the statement.

Major League Baseball players Thursday pledged their long-term support of relief and recovery efforts in Haiti by committing up to $1 million from the Major League Baseball Players Trust. Beginning with immediate $100,000 contributions each to Esperanza International and Medicines for Humanity, over the next five years, the Players Trust will provide grants totaling up to $1 million to support the efforts of non-profit organizations working to help Haiti recover from the devastating effects of the earthquake.

The following statement was issued today by Major League Baseball Players Association Executive Director, Michael Weiner, regarding the retirement of Mark Loretta, MLBPA Association Representative: "For many years, the MLBPA has benefited from Mark Loretta's dedication, insight and leadership. The members and staff of the union congratulate Mark for his accomplishments on and off the field, and we wish him well as he joins the Padres' front office. I know Mark will continue to contribute meaningfully to the game."

The NFL Players Association, National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), National Hockey League Players Association (NHLPA) and Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) today announced the creation of the One Team 4 Haiti campaign to support the Clinton Bush Haiti Funds focus on the countrys earthquake relief and recovery efforts.

The Basic Agreement requires that each Club use its revenue sharing receipts in an effort to improve its performance on the field. This requirement is of obvious importance to all players, Clubs and fans of the game. In recent years, the Union has had concerns that certain Clubs have not lived up to this requirement, and has consulted regularly with the Commissioners Office about those concerns. The Florida Marlins are one of a number of Clubs that have been discussed.

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association announced today that Tim Maxey has been named the sports Joint Strength and Conditioning Coordinator, a new position whose duties will focus on providing guidance to and identifying best practices for Clubs and Players on issues involving conditioning, fitness, nutrition and other related subjects.

Michael Weiner: We are disappointed that the committee selected by the National Baseball Hall of Fame to consider such matters once again did not elect Marvin Miller to the Hall. Very few individuals have had as significant or as positive an impact upon the history of baseball as Marvin. That impact has been and will be recognized by those who lived through and will study the games history. The Hall remains incomplete without Marvins plaque.

The Executive Board of the Major League Baseball Players Association voted unanimously to approve the selection of Michael Weiner as Executive Director, effective immediately, it was announced today during the MLBPAs annual Executive Board meeting. Weiner replaces Donald Fehr, who announced his resignation plans on June 22, following 26 years as Executive Director.

In a season marked by extraordinary performances on and off the field, Major League baseball players today bestowed their highest honors on two players  St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Albert Pujols is Player of the Year and Detroit Tigers centerfielder Curtis Granderson is the Marvin Miller Man of the Year.

Major League baseball players in each league cast votes to determine this seasons "best of the best," and the 2009 Players Choice Award winner for American League Outstanding Player is Minnesota Twins catcher Joe Mauer and the National League Outstanding Player is St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Albert Pujols.

Members and staff of the Major League Baseball Players Association were saddened to learn of the passing of Terry Miller, the wife of founding Executive Director Marvin Miller, on Tuesday, October 27. She was 90.

Zack Greinke of the Kansas City Royals and Adam Wainwright of the St. Louis Cardinals are Major League Baseballs kings of the hill, according to their peers. Today, the Major League Baseball Players Association and ESPN Radios Mike Greenberg and Mike Golic announced the winners of the 2009 Players Choice Awards for each leagues Outstanding Pitcher during the third in a series of five daily broadcast segments highlighting the on-field performances and community leadership of Major League players.

Perseverance and dedication took center stage today as Major League baseball players named St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Chris Carpenter and Toronto Blue Jays second baseman Aaron Hill this season's top comeback players. Today, the Major League Baseball Players Association and ESPN Radios Mike Greenberg and Mike Golic announced the winners of the 2009 Players Choice Awards for each leagues Comeback Player during the second of a series of daily broadcast segments highlighting the on-field performances and community leadership of Major League players.

In a season full of outstanding rookie performances, standouts Gordon Beckham and J.A. Happ were voted by their peers as tops in Major League Baseballs 2009 freshman class. Today, the Major League Baseball Players Association and ESPN Radios Mike Greenberg and Mike Golic announced the winners of the 2009 Players Choice Awards for each leagues Outstanding Rookie during the first of a series of segments to be broadcast exclusively this week on the Mike & Mike in the Morning show (6 am  10 am ET).

The Upper Deck Company, in conjunction with the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA), is very excited to announce its partnership to launch the first-of-its kind National Packtime sampling promotion on Saturday, March 6, 2010. The centerpiece of the promotion is a one-day event that will provide fans with free packs of baseball cards. Exclusive packs of National Packtime baseball cards will be distributed via Upper Decks network of baseball card specialty shops.

On Saturday, the Major League Baseball Players Trusts City Clinics program makes its fifth stop on its 10-city tour, when former Florida Marlins and World Series champs, Cliff Floyd, Lenny Harris and Charles Johnson host 300 South Florida-area youth in a free baseball skills clinic. Through their City Clinics program, Major Leaguers are teaching baseball and important life skills to 3,000 disadvantaged children from inner-cities across the United States.

MLBPA Executive Director Don Fehr announced today that the membership of the Major League Baseball Players Association has voted overwhelmingly (1,055 to 4) to endorse the Executive Boards recommendation that Michael Weiner become the MLBPAs next Executive Director. "I congratulate Michael on securing this extraordinary vote of confidence," said Fehr.

Thousands of baseball fans participated in an Internet poll on www.MLBPLAYERS.com between Sept. 4 and 13, to determine which six players, one from each division, inspire others to higher levels of achievement by their on-field performances and contributions to their communities. From this list of 30 players, Mike Lowell (Boston Red Sox) was tabbed to represent the AL East, Curtis Granderson (Detroit Tigers) the AL Central, Torii Hunter (Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim) the AL West, Shane Victorino (Philadelphia Phillies) the NL East, Albert Pujols (St. Louis Cardinals) the NL Central and Barry Zito (San Francisco Giants) the NL West.

Major League Baseball (MLB) and the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) will donate up to one million tickets to people who serve their country and community, as well as under-served youth, through the launch of a new program called MLB & Players GIVE BACK starting today on September 11 -- a National Day of Service and Remembrance.

Beginning Friday, fans voting online will help select the Major League Baseball player whose on-field performance and contributions to his community inspire others to higher levels of achievement. Fan-voting for the Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award will be conducted on www.MLBPLAYERS.com, the official website of Major League baseball players, through Sunday, Sept. 13.

Don Fehr writes, "Today the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, sitting en banc, ruled in favor of the Players Association in the litigation regarding the government's seizure of the 2003 testing records."

Prior to todays game at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pirates players will provide everlasting memories to a group of children from the All of Us Care Program, as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program motors into Pennsylvania.

Prior to todays game at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, Royals players Willie Bloomquist, Bruce Chen, David DeJesus, Zack Greinke, Luke Hochevar, Mike Jacobs and Jamey Wright will provide everlasting memories to a group of children from the Concord Fortress of Hope Church in Kansas City, as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program motors into Missouri.

Major League baseball players Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins team up in an Internet video-short premiering today on www.funnyordie.com to promote the Major League Baseball Players Trust and inspire volunteerism. "Fantasy Camp, the fourth in a series of humorous video-shorts starring Major Leaguers, features the Philadelphia Phillies first baseman and shortstop providing an exclusive and outrageous inside-look at what it takes to be a Major League ballplayer.

Major League Baseball Players Association Executive Director Donald M. Fehr issued the following statement in response to todays report in The New York Times. Today The New York Times, once again, reports what it asserts to be information contained in documents under court seal. And precisely for that reason, the Players Association will not, indeed cannot, comment on whether the information is accurate. But there should be no mistake. The leaking of information under a court seal is a crime. The active pursuit of information that may not lawfully be disclosed because it is under court seal is a crime. That its informants, according to the Times, are lawyers is both shocking and sad. That the Times is pursuing and publishing what it openly declares to be information which may not be legally disclosed is equally sad.

Tuesday, during a Citi Field press conference, Mets players Daniel Murphy, Bobby Parnell, J.J. Putz, Omir Santos and Gary Sheffield unveiled The Players Choice Signature Series  featuring jerseys, T-shirts and caps they designed exclusively for their fans, with each product expressing the personalities and attitudes of the individual players who designed them.

Tuesday, the Major League Baseball Players Trusts City Clinics program makes its third stop on its 10-city tour, when Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim players Brian Fuentes, Torii Hunter, Howie Kendrick and Gary Matthews, Jr., host 300 area youth in a free baseball skills clinic.

Prior to todays game at Nationals Park in Washington, Nationals players Adam Dunn, John Lannan, Wil Nieves, Ron Villone, Josh Willingham and Jordan Zimmermann will provide everlasting memories to children from the Loudon Transitional Housing Program and Eastern Avenue Apartments, as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program motors into Washington.

During a teleconference held on Tuesday, July 7, the MLBPA Executive Board made a preliminary decision to name Michael Weiner, currently MLBPA General Counsel, as the Associations next Executive Director, replacing Donald Fehr, who announced his resignation on June 22.

During an on-field ceremony prior to tonights game, Minnesota Twins players Joe Mauer and Nick Punto will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor eight high school students serving as Captains of the Minnesota Action Team®, part of the national service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

Prior to todays game at US Cellular Field in Chicago, White Sox players Brian Anderson, Josh Fields, Gavin Floyd, AJ Pierzynski, Jim Thome, and Dewayne Wise will provide everlasting memories to a group of children from the Immaculate Heart of Mary Youth mentoring program located in Chicago, as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program motors into Illinois.

After twenty years in the baseball card market, The Upper Deck Company has been granted a new trading card license agreement with the Major League Baseball Players Association. We are thrilled to renew our commitment to the baseball card market and look forward to working closely with the Players Association to further grow the category, said Upper Deck CEO Richard McWilliam.

Prior to tonights game against the Philadelphia Phillies in Toronto, Blue Jays players Shawn Camp, Aaron Hill, John McDonald, Alex Rios, Marco Scutaro, and Vernon Wells will provide everlasting memories to a group of children from the Make a Wish Foundation as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program rolls into Ontario.

During an on-field ceremony prior to tonights game, Mariners players Miguel Batista, Russell Branyan, Ken Griffey, Jr. and Brandon Morrow will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor 13 Seattle-area high school students serving as Captains of the Seattle Action Team®, part of the national service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

Major League Baseball players presented $150,000 in grants from the Major League Baseball Players Trust to five Volunteers of America programs that further the organizations mission to strengthen communities and build better lives for those in need.

Prior to todays game at Chase Field in Phoenix, Diamondbacks players Tony Clark, Dan Haren, Felipe Lopez, Augie Ojeda and Chris Young will provide everlasting memories to a group of children from the Sunshine
Acres Childrens Home, as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program motors into Arizona.

Prior to todays game at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Fla., Rays players Carl Crawford, Matt Garza, Gabe Kapler, Evan Longoria and BJ Upton will provide everlasting memories to a group of children from the Wilbert Davis Boys & Girls Club, as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program motors into the Sunshine State.

During an on-field ceremony prior to tonights game, Tampa Bay Rays players, Gabe Kapler and Carlos Pena will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor seven high school students serving as Captains of the Tampa Action Team®, part of the national service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

Major League baseball players will begin teaching baseball and important life skills to 3,000 disadvantaged children from inner-cities across the United States, when they launch their first in a series of 10 City Clinics in Phoenix, Ariz., on Wednesday, June 10, it was announced today by the Major League Baseball Players Trust.

During an on-field ceremony prior to tonights game, New York Mets relief pitcher, J.J. Putz, will represent all Major Leaguers when he honors 14 high school students serving as Captains of the New York Action Team®, part of the national service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

Prior to todays game at Minute Maid Park in Houston, Astros players Geoff Blum, Michael Bourn, LaTroy Hawkins and Russ Ortiz will provide everlasting memories to 50 parents and children from Crockett Elementary, as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program motors into Houston.

Prior to todays game at Turner Field in Atlanta, Braves players Garret Anderson, Jeff Francoeur, Derek Lowe, Brian McCann, Peter Moylan, David Ross and Javier Vazquez will provide everlasting memories to 40
children from the Charles R. Drew Charter School and the Gresham Park Baseball and Softball Association, as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program motors into Atlanta.

During an on-field ceremony prior to tonights game, eight high school students serving as Captains of the Boston Action Team®, part of the national service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers, will receive certificates of achievement signed by Boston Action Team players, Mark Kotsay, David Ortiz and Jason Varitek.

During an on-field ceremony prior to tonights game, Washington Nationals players Joel Hanrahan, Julian Tavarez and Ryan Zimmerman will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor 12 high school students serving as Captains of the Washington D.C. Action Team®, part of the national service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

During an on-field ceremony prior to tonights game, Cleveland Indians players Josh Barfield, Jamey Carroll, Ben Francisco and Ryan Garko will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor 10 high school students serving as Captains of the Cleveland Action Team®, part of the national service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

Prior to todays game at Progressive Field in Cleveland, Indians players Mark DeRosa, Ben Francisco, Ryan Garko, Masa Kobayashi, Jensen Lewis, Kelly Shoppach, Grady Sizemore and Kerry Wood will provide everlasting memories to a group of children from St. Luke's Catholic Church as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program rolls into Cleveland.

"The Commissioner's Office announced today that Manny Ramirez has been suspended for 50 games under Major League Baseball's Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program. That suspension was issued pursuant to Section 8.G.2 of the Program. Manny, after consultation with the Players Association and his personal representatives, waived his right to challenge that suspension..."

During an on-field ceremony prior to tonights game, Boston Red Sox players David Ortiz and Jason Varitek will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor 40 high school students serving as Captains of the Maine Action Team®, part of the national service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

During an on-field ceremony prior to tonights game, Colorado Rockies players Ryan Spilborghs and Huston Street will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor 21 high school students serving as Captains of the Denver Action Team®, part of the national service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

Prior to todays game at Coors Field in Denver, Rockies players Aaron Cook, Ubaldo Jimenez, Jason Marquis, Glendon Rusch, Seth Smith and Yorvit Torrealba will provide everlasting memories to a group of children from Loyola Elementary School as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program motors into Colorado.

Prior to todays game at Comerica Park in Detroit, Tigers players Josh Anderson, Edwin Jackson, Gerald Laird, Placido Polanco and Justin Verlander will provide everlasting memories to a group of children from University Prep Academys elementary school as the Major League Baseball Players Trusts Buses for Baseball program rolls into Detroit.

During an on-field ceremony prior to tonights game, Cincinnati Reds players Mike Lincoln, Nick Masset and David Weathers will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor 12 high school students serving as Captains of the Cincinnati and Indianapolis Action Teams®, part of the national service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

During an on-field ceremony prior to tonights game, Cincinnati Reds players Mike Lincoln, Nick Masset and David Weathers will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor 12 high school students serving as Captains of the Cincinnati and Indianapolis Action Teams®, part of the national service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

Today, Cincinnati Reds players Mike Lincoln, Nick Masset and Dave Weathers joined forces with local high school volunteers from the Cincinnati Action Team to spruce up the landscape at Volunteers of Americas Antioch Manor, a residence serving 36 disabled, low-income adults.

In a pre-game ceremony this evening, St. Louis Cardinals first baseman, Albert Pujols, will receive two prestigious Players Choice Awards as the 2008 Player of the Year and NL Outstanding Player. Selected in a secret ballot of Major League players, Albert will receive the Players Choice Awards in recognition of his inspiring and record-setting 2008 season.

Major League baseball players will award $1,000 college scholarships to 23 outstanding high school students in recognition of their dedication to community service and tireless efforts to encourage others to get involved with causes they believe in, it was announced today by the Major League Baseball Players Trust. Each scholarship recipient is a member of the Action Team national youth volunteer program created and administered by the Major League Baseball Players Trust and Volunteers of America.

We were shaken and deeply saddened when we learned about the terrible accident that claimed the lives of Nick Adenhart and others. Just hours before the accident, Nick demonstrated his passion for baseball and his prospects for a very bright future when he pitched six scoreless innings for the Angels. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Nicks family, his teammates, the Angels organization and his many friends and fans; It is very painful to lose a son, a teammate and a friend under these circumstances, and we also extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the other victims of the crash.

Major League Baseball Players Association Executive Director, Donald M. Fehr, today announced that former Major League pitchers Rick Helling and Mike Myers are joining the Association's staff. Helling and Myers join former Major Leaguers Bobby Bonilla, Phil Bradley, Stan Javier and Steve Rogers as special assistants to the Executive Director.

During an on-field ceremony prior to this evenings World Baseball Classic game between Puerto Rico and Netherlands, Team Puerto Rico players Alex Cora, Felipe Lopez and J.C. Romero will represent all Major Leaguers when they honor 10 San Juan-area high school students serving as Captains of the Puerto Rico Action Team®, a service-learning program in which Major League players and high school students are inspiring and training the next generation of volunteers.

World Baseball Classic, Inc. (WBCI) will distribute more than $15 million in proceeds from the 2009 World Baseball Classic to the participating federations and the International Baseball Federation (IBAF), it was announced today. The prize pool for the participating teams will be $14 million, which is nearly double the $7.8 million that was awarded after the inaugural event. In addition, the IBAF, the worldwide governing body for the sport of baseball, will receive over $1 million to invest in game development globally.

Information and documents relating to the results of the 2003 MLB testing program are both confidential and under seal by court orders. We are prohibited from confirming or denying any allegation about the test results of any particular player(s) by the collective bargaining agreement and by court orders. Anyone with knowledge of such documents who discloses their contents may be in violation of those court orders."

"Some press stories have stated that the Association advised players that the particular supplement J.C. took was safe. Others have suggested that the Association knew, in advance of the positive tests, that this supplement contained a banned substance. Neither is accurate. The Association knew nothing about the particular supplements involved here prior to learning of these positive results."

"Sergio Mitre and J.C. Romero were suspended for fifty games each by the Commissioner because they tested positive during the 2008 regular season for a Performance Enhancing Substance. Those suspensions were upheld by a neutral third-party arbitrator after hearing. We strongly disagree with the Commissioners discipline and with the arbitrators decision."